How Does Turner Syndrome Affect Mental Health and Social Development in Young Women?

What you need to know

• Girls with Turner syndrome are significantly more likely to experience mental health challenges and social difficulties compared to their peers
• About one-third of young people with Turner syndrome meet criteria for at least one mental health condition
• There are notable differences between how parents, teachers, and the young people themselves perceive social challenges

Understanding Turner Syndrome’s Impact

Turner syndrome affects approximately 1 in 2,500 female births and occurs when one of the X chromosomes is missing or partially missing. While the physical aspects of Turner syndrome are well documented, less attention has been paid to how it affects mental health and social development. New research provides important insights into these challenges, helping families and healthcare providers better understand and support young women with the condition.

Mental Health Challenges

The study found that about 34% of girls with Turner syndrome met criteria for at least one mental health condition - nearly three times higher than typically developing girls. The most common challenges included:

• Anxiety disorders (13%)
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (13%)
• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (23%)

Interestingly, rates of depression were actually lower in girls with Turner syndrome compared to their peers. When mental health conditions did occur, they often appeared together - for example, girls who met criteria for autism were also more likely to experience anxiety or ADHD.

Social Communication and Friendships

One of the most significant findings involved social communication and friendship development. According to parents:

• 72% of girls with Turner syndrome found it harder than average to make friends
• 56% had difficulty maintaining friendships
• 17% had no regular friends
• 61% showed some characteristics of autism spectrum disorder

However, there was an interesting disconnect in how different people viewed these challenges. While parents reported significant social difficulties, teachers and the young women themselves often didn’t identify the same level of concern.

Different Perspectives on Social Challenges

This difference in perspective raises important questions. Why do parents see more difficulties than teachers or the young women themselves? Several possibilities exist:

• Teachers may have limited opportunities to observe subtle social interactions
• Young women might be comparing themselves to different standards
• Some may be less aware of their social challenges
• Others might be content with fewer but closer friendships

What This Means for You

If you’re a parent or caregiver of a young person with Turner syndrome, consider these action steps:

• Watch for signs of social difficulties or anxiety, even if your child doesn’t report concerns
• Discuss any social or emotional concerns with healthcare providers
• Consider seeking evaluation for autism spectrum disorder if significant social challenges exist
• Remember that social skills can be taught and improved with appropriate support
• Work with schools to ensure teachers understand your child’s unique needs
• Support your child’s friendships while respecting their comfort level with social interaction

Conclusions

• Turner syndrome affects more than just physical health - it can significantly impact mental health and social development
• Early identification of challenges can help ensure appropriate support and intervention
• A team approach involving parents, healthcare providers, and educators is crucial for supporting young women with Turner syndrome